Control release of biologically active compounds from multi-armed oligomers

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to the discovery of biodegradable multi-armed oligomers wherein the end groups of these oligomers have been functionalized with biologically active molecules. The resultant multi-armed oligomers end-functionalized with biologically active molecules have a controllable degradation profile. The hydrolytic degradation of oligomers of the present invention releases the biologically active compound as such with no change in native chemical structure.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 60/969,787, filed Sep. 4, 2007, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the discovery of biodegradable multi-armed oligomers wherein the end groups of these oligomers have been functionalized with biologically active molecules. The resultant multi-armed oligomers end-functionalized with biologically active molecules have a controllable degradation profile. The hydrolytic degradation of oligomers of the present invention releases the biologically active compound as such with no change in native chemical structure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Biologically active compounds are well known (e.g., aspirin and capsaicin) and have been beneficially administered to patients in need thereof for more than a century. One problem that has been associated with many biologically active compounds is that they can be difficult to dissolve in water or the human body and can also be very difficult to polymerize. Due to the availability and numerous uses of biologically active compounds, it is desirable to enhance their native value by, for example, providing compounds or combinations of compounds with a specific controlled degradation profile or range enabling controlled release of the biologically active compound over an extended, controllable time range. The present invention is directed to these and other important ends.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to biodegradable multi-armed (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 arms) oligomers wherein the end groups of these oligomers have been functionalized with biologically active molecules.

The present invention also provides a method of preparing absorbable oligomer compositions comprising functionalized biologically active compounds and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

The present invention also provides a therapeutic method for treating a disease in a mammal comprising administering to a mammal in need of such therapy, an effective amount of an oligomer of the present invention.

The present invention also provides a method of delivering a biologically active compound to a mammal comprising administering to the mammal a biocompatible and biodegradable oligomer of the present invention, which degrades into the biologically active compound.

The present invention also provides an oligomer for use in medical therapy, as well as the use of an oligomer for the manufacture of a medicament useful for the treatment of a disease in a mammal.

The invention also provides processes of functionalizing biologically active compounds and preparation of biologically active oligomer with controlled degradation profiles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention relates to the discovery of biodegradable multi-armed (two armed, three armed, four armed, six armed) oligomers wherein the end groups of these oligomers have been functionalized with biologically active molecules. The resultant multi-armed oligomers end-functionalized with biologically active molecules have a controllable degradation profile. The hydrolytic degradation of oligomers of the present invention releases the biologically active compound as such with no change in native chemical structure.

As used herein, the term “biologically active compound” refers to a naturally occurring, semi-synthetic, or synthetic therapeutic agent that provides a therapeutically desirable effect when administered to a mammal (e.g., human). Biologically active compounds capable of incorporation into polymers of the present invention possess at least two functional groups that can each be incorporated into an ester or amide linkage of a polymer of the present invention, such that, upon hydrolysis of the polymer, the therapeutic agent is obtained. The biologically active compounds useful in the present invention have at least one aryl or heteroaryl ring and at least one hydroxyl (OH), substituted or unsubstituted amino, or carboxylic acid substituent on the aromatic or heteroaromatic ring, or functional derivatives of such substituents, such as esters, amides, methyl ethers, and/or glycosides, or other derivatives that would be apparent to those skilled in the art. Additional examples of the number of aromatic groups present in the phenolic include (a) 1, 2, and 3 and (b) 1 and 2. Additional examples of the number of functional (e.g., hydroxyl) groups present on the phenolic include (a) 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 and (b) 1 and 2.

The biologically active compounds can also comprise other functional groups (e.g., hydroxyl groups, amine groups, and carboxylic acids) that can be used to modify the properties of the polymer (e.g. for branching, for cross linking, for appending other molecules (e.g. another biologically active compound) to the polymer, for changing the solubility of the polymer, or for effecting the biodistribution of the polymer. Lists of therapeutic agents can be found, for example, in: Physicians' Desk Reference, 61^(st) Ed., 2007, Thomson Healthcare Company; USPN Dictionary of USAN and International Drug Names, 2000, The United States Pharmacopoeia Convention, Inc., Rockville, Md.; and The Merck Index, 14^(th) Ed., 2007, John Wiley & Sons. One skilled in the art can readily select therapeutic agents that possess the necessary functional groups for incorporation into the polymers of the invention from these lists.

Therapeutic agents that may be incorporated into the polymers of the invention include suitably functionalized analgesics or general or local anesthetics, anti-convulsants, anti-diabetic agents, anti-fibrotic agents, anti-infectives, anti-bacterials, anti-fungals, anti-neoplastics, cardioprotective agents, cardiovascular agents, anti-thrombotics, central nervous system stimulants, cholinesterase inhibitors, contraceptives, deodorants, dopamine receptor agonists, erectile dysfunction agents, fertility agents, gastrointestinal agents, gout agents, hormones, immunomodulators, immunosuppressive, migraine agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), motion sickness agents, muscle relaxants, nucleoside analogs, neurodegenerative agents (e.g., Parkinson's disease), obesity agents, ophthalmic agents, osteoporosis agents, parasympatholytics, parasympathommetics, anti-anesthetics, prostaglandins, psychotherapeutic agents, respiratory agents, sedatives, hypnotics, skin and mucous membrane agents, smoking cessation agents, sympatholytics, urinary tract agents, vaginal agents, and vasodilators, and the like (see Physicians' Desk Reference, 61^(st) Ed., 2007, Thomson Health Care).

Phenol is the simplest example of a phenolic compound, but most phenolics have two or more hydroxyl groups and are in many instances bioactive substances occurring widely in food plants that are eaten regularly by substantial numbers of animals and people. These food-plant bioactive phenolic compounds have typically been found to be safe compounds. Included in the definition of biologically active phenolics are highly substituted poly-phenols whose structures include condensed rings.

Examples of naturally occurring biologically active phenolics include bergaptol, caffeic acid, capsaicin, coumarin, daidzein, 2,5-dihydroxy-benzoic acid, ferulic acid, flavonoids, glycitein (isoflavone), 4-hydroxycinnamic acid, 4-hydroxy-coumarin, isopimpinellin, resveratrol, sinapic acid, vanillic acid, vanillin, and derivatives thereof.

Capsaicin is a biologically active phenolic that is the active component of cayenne pepper. The capsaicin is an amide of vanillylamine and C₈ to C₁₃ branched fatty acids. Topical application of capsaicin stimulates and blocks small pain fibers by depleting them of the neurotransmitter substance P that mediates pain impulses. A cream made from 0.025%-0.075% capsaicin applied 4 times daily reportedly may help peripheral neuropathic pain, post-herpetic neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia, psoriasis and fibromyalgia. It may also be useful for diabetic neuropathy, cluster headaches, earache, osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis. Capsaicin is a powerful pain reliever.

Naproxen, paracetanol, acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid are biologically active phenolics that belong to the class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. It is generally believed that NSAIDs provide relief by blocking the action of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that contribute to pain, inflammation, fever and muscle cramps.

Phenolic moieties, synthetic and naturally occurring, are part of many drugs. Examples of these medicinals include acenocoumarol, acetarsol, actinoquinol, adrenalone, alibendol, amodiaquine, anethole, balsalazide, bamethan, benserazide, bentiromide, benzarone, benzquinamide, bevantolol, bifluranol, buclosamide, bupheniode, chlorotrianisene, chloroxylenol, cianidanol, cinepazide, cinitapride, cinepazide, cinmetacin, clebopride, clemastine, clioquinol, cyclovalone, cynarine, denopamine, dextroythyroxine, diacerein, dichlorophen, dienestrol, diethylstilbestrol, diflunisal, diiodohydroxyquinoline, dilazep, dilevalol, dimestrol, dimoxyline, diosmin, dithranol, dobutamine, donepezil, dopamine, dopexamine, doxazosin, entacapone, epanolol, epimestrol, epinephrine, estradiol valerate, estriol, estriol succinate, estrone, etamivan, etamsylate, ethaverine, ethoxzolamide, ethyl biscoum-acetate, etilefrine, etiroxate, exalamide, exifone, fendosal, fenoldopam mesilate, fenoterol, fenoxedil, fenticlor, flopropione, floredil, fluorescein, folescutol, formo-terol, gallopamil, gentistic acid, glaziovine, glibenclamide, glucametacin, guajacol, halquinol, hexachlorophene, hexestrol, hexobendine, hexoprenaline, hexylresorcinol, hydroxyethyl salicylate, hydroxystilbamidine isethionate, hymecromone, ifenprodil, indomethacin, ipriflavone, isoetarine, isoprenaline, isoxsuprine, itopride hydrochlor-ide, ketobemidone, khellin, labetalol, lactylphenetidin, levodopa. levomepromazine, levorphanol, levothyroxine, mebeverine, medrylamine, mefexamide, mepacrine, mesalazine, mestranol, metaraminol, methocarbamol, methoxamine, methoxsalen, methyldopa, midodrine, mitoxantrone, morclofone, nabumetone, naproxen, nitroxo-line, norfenefrine, normolaxol, octopamine, omeprazole, orciprenaline, oxilofrine, oxitriptan, oxyfedrine, oxypertine, oxyphenbutazone, oxyphenisatin acetate, oxyquinoline, papaverine, paracetanol, parethoxycaine, phenacaine, phenacetin, phenazocine, phenolphthalein, phenprocoumon, phentolamine, phloedrine, picotamide, pimobendan, prenalterol, primaquine, progabide, propanidid, protokylol, proxymetacaine, raloxifene hydrochloride, repaglinide, reproterol, rimiterol, ritodrine, salacetamide, salazosulfapyridine, salbutamol, salicylamide, salicylic acid, salmeterol, salsalate, sildenafil, silibinin, sulmetozin, tamsulosin, terazosin, terbutaline, tetroxoprim, theo-drenaline, tioclomarol, tioxolone, α-tocopherol (vitamin E), tofisopam, tolcapone, tolterodine, tranilast, tretoquinol, triclosan, trimazosin, trimetazidine, trimethobenz-amide, trimethoprim, trimetozine, trimetrexate glucuronate, troxipide, verapamil, vesnarinone, vetrabutine, viloxazine, warfarin, xamoterol.

Other bioactive phenolics include acacetin, 4-acetamido-2-methyl-1-naphthol, acetaminophen, albuterol, allenolic acid, aloe emodin, aloin, β-amino-4-hydroxy-3,5-di-iodohydrocinnamic acid, N-(5-amino-2-hydroxyphenyl)-benzeneacetamide, 4-amino-1-naphthol, 3-aminosalicylic acid, 4-aminosalicylic acid, anacardic acid, p-anol, anthragallol, anthralin, anthranol, anthrarobin, anthrarufin, apigenin, apiin, apocynin, aspidinol, aspirin, baptigenin, benzestrol, benzoresorcinol, bisphenol a, bisphenol b, butylated hydroxylanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, capobenic acid, trans-1-(3′-carboxy-4′-hydroxyphenyl)-2-(2″,5″-dihydroxyphenyl)ethane, catechin, chlorogenic acid, m-chlorophenol, 5-chloro-8-quinolinol, chloroxylenol, chlorquinaldol, chromo-nar, chrysin, cinametic acid, clorophene, coniferyl alcohol, p-coumaric acid, coumes-trol, coumetarol, daphnetin, datiscetin, deoxyepinephrine, 3,5-diiodothyronine, 3,5-di-iodotyrosine, dimethophrine, diosmetin, diresorcinol, disoprofol, dopa, dopamine, drosophilin a, efloxate, ellagic acid, embelin, Equol, eriodictyol, esculetin, esculin, ethylnorepinephrine, ethyl vanillin, eugenol, eupatorin, fenadiazole, ferulic acid, fisetin, 3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, fraxetin, fustin, galangin, gallacetophe-none, gallic acid, gardenins, genistein, gentisyl alcohol, gepefrine, geranylhydroqui-none, [6]-gingerol, gossypol, guaiacol, guaifenesin, harmalol, hematoxylin, hinderin, homoeriodictyol, homogentisic acid, homovanillic acid, hydroxyamphetamine, 2-hyd-roxy-5-(2,5-dihydroxybenzylamino)-2-hydroxybenzoic acid, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-mandelic acid, n-(p-hydroxyphenyl)glycine, hydroxyprocaine, 8-hydroxyquinoline, hypericin, irigenin, isoproterenol, isoquercitrin, isothebaine, kaempferol, liothyronine, luteolin, mangostin, 5,5′-methylenedisalicylic acid, n-methylepinephrine, metyrosine, morin, mycophenolic acid, myricetin, naringenin, nylidrin, orcinol, osalmid, osthole, oxantel, paroxypropione, pentachlorophenol, 3-pentadecylcatechol, p-pentyloxy-phenol, phloretin, phloroglucinol, pinosylvine, plumbagin, pyrocatechol, pyrogallol, quercetagetin, quercetin, resacetophenone, rhamnetin, rhein, sakuranetin, salicyl alcohol, salicylanilide, 4-salicyloylmorpholine, salsalate, scopoletin, scutellarein, serotonin, (3,4,5-trihydroxyphenyl)methylenepropanedinitrile, thymol, thyropropic acid, thyroxine, tiratricol, tyrosine, vanillic acid, and vanillin.

Examples of biologically active amino compounds include Aceclofenac, Acediasulfone, Alminoprofen, Amisulpride, AmLexanox, Amodiaquine, Amosulalol, Amoxicillin, Amsacrine, Anileridine, Azacyclonol, Baccofen, Balsalazide sodium, Benzocaine, Bromopride, Bumetanide, Carprofen, Carvedilol, Carzenide, Cefprozil, Cinitapride, Clebopride, Clenbuterol, Diclofenac, Ethoxzolamide, Flufenamic acid, Furosemide, lobenzamic acid, locetamic acid, Mefenamic acid, Nadoxolol, D-Nor-pseudoephedrine and paracetamol.

Examples of biologically active carboxylic acid compounds include Acemetacin, Aceclofenac, Acediasulfone, Adipiodone, Alminoprofen, AmLexanox, Anileridine, Baccofen, Balsalazide sodium, Bentiromide, Benzocaine, Bumetanide, Carprofen, Carzenide, Cinmetacin, Clometacin, Cromoglicic acid, Diclofenac, Diflunisal, Eprosartan, Fendosal, Flufenamic acid, Furosemide, Indometacin, Iobenzamic acid, locarmic acid, locetamic acid, Iodoxamic acid, loglycamic acid, lophenoic acid, lotroxic acid, Mefenamic acid, Naproxen, Nedocromil, Repaglinide, Salazosulfapyridine, Salicylic Acid, Salsalate, and Sarpogrelate.

Flavonoids, sometimes called bioflavonoids, are 3-ring phenolic compounds consisting of a double ring attached by a single bond to a third ring. Examples include flavonoids, flavanones, flavones, flavanols, anthocyanidins, proanthocyanidins, procyanidolic oligomers (PCO), catechins, biflavans, polyphenols, rutin, rutinosides, hydroxyethylrutosides (HER), hesperidin, quercetin, quercetrin, polyphenols, catechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin gallate, and leucoanthocyanins. Flavonoids include the water-soluble pigments, such as anthocyanins, that are found in cell vacuoles. Flavonols are colorless or yellow flavonoids found in leaves and many flowers.

A therapeutic dose of bioflavonoids is helpful for conditions related to Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Some examples are: thrombophlebitis, thrombosis, varicose veins, leg ulcers, spider veins, hemorrhoids, chronic nosebleeds, prolonged menstrual bleeding. Even eye problems like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy have been helped with bioflavonoids. Along with the anti-inflammatory effects, bioflavonoids can be very helpful for tendonitis, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, joint injury, fibromyalgia, cellulite, and gout. Bioflavonoids, specifically proanthcyanidins, are found in grape seed extract. The proanthcyanidins appear to enhance the activity of vitiamin C. The bioflavonoids in grape seed extract may also reduce the painful inflammation of swollen joints and prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in arteries that leads to plaque in the arterial walls.

Isoflavones exert a broad spectrum of biological activities. Besides antioxidant and estrogenic activities, isoflavones protect against several chronic diseases. Results of epidemiological studies indicate that consumption of soybean isoflavones lowers the incidence of breast, prostate, urinary tract and colon cancers. They also provide protection against coronary heart diseases and osteoporosis. Examples of isoflavones include are glycitein (isoflavone), daidzein, prunetin, biochanin A, orobol, santal, pratensein, formononetin, genistein, glycitein, and the glucosides, β-glycosides and other derivatives of the aforementioned isoflavones.

Further examples of biologically active compounds with hydroxyl, carboxyl and/or amino groups useful in the present invention may be found in the following texts, which are hereby incorporated in their entireties herein by reference.

-   a. Shahidi, Ferriodoon and Marian Naczk, Phenolics in Food and     Nutriceuticals, Boca Raton, Fla.: CRC Press, 2003. -   b. Kleemann, A. et al, Pharmaceutical Substances, 4th Edition,     Thieme (2000). -   c. Phenolic Compounds in Food and Their Effects on Health II;     Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention, ACS Symposium Series No. 507,     Washington, D.C.: ACS, 1992. -   d. Food Phytochemicals for Cancer Prevention I, ACS Symposium     Series N. 546, Washington, D.C.: ACS, 1994. -   e. ROMPP Encyclopedia Natural Products, New York: Thieme, 2000. -   f. The Merck Index, 14^(th) edition, John Wiley & Sons, 2007. -   g. A Single Source for Flavonoids and Coumarins (2005-2006),     INDOFINE Chemical Company, Inc. 2006.

The present invention provides novel oligomers of formulae I and/or II or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof:

[R¹—O—(Y)_(b)—C(═O)CH₂—(X)_(a)—OC(═O)]_(w)—R  I

[R²—C(═O)O—(X¹)_(a)—CH₂C(═O)—(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)—R  II

wherein:

-   -   R¹—O— is a biologically active compound residue;     -   R²—C(═O)O— is a biologically active compound residue;     -   X is selected from: —OC(═O)CH₂— (inverse glycolic acid moiety),         —OC(═O)CH(CH₃)— (inverse lactic acid moiety), —OC(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂—         (inverse dioxanone acid moiety), —OC(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂—         (inverse caprolactone acid moiety), —OC(═O) (CH₂)_(y)—, or         —OC(═O)CH₂(OCH₂CH₂)_(z)—.     -   X¹ is selected from: —CH₂C(═O)O— (glycolic acid moiety),         —CH(CH₃)C(═O)O— (lactic acid moiety), —CH₂CH₂OCH₂C(═O)O—         (dioxanone acid moiety), —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂C(═O)O— (caprolactone         acid moiety), —(CH₂)_(y)C(═O)O—, or —(CH₂CH₂O)_(z)CH₂C(═O)O—;     -   Y is selected from: —C(═O)CH₂O— (glycolic ester moiety),         —C(═O)CH(CH₃)O— (lactic ester moiety), —C(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂O—         (dioxanone ester moiety), —C(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂O— (caprolactone         ester moiety), —C(═O)(CH₂)_(m)O—, or —C(═O)CH₂—O—(CH₂CH₂O)_(n)—;     -   Y¹ is selected from: —OCH₂C(═O)— (inverse glycolic ester         moiety), —OCH(CH₃)C(═O)— (inverse lactic ester moiety),         —OCH₂CH₂OCH₂C(═O)— (inverse dioxanone ester moiety),         —OCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂C(═O)— (inverse caprolactone ester moiety),         —O(CH₂)_(m)C(═O)—, or —O(CH₂CH₂O)_(n)OCH₂C(═O)—;     -   R is a di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical derived from         C₂₋₂₅ alkyl, aryl, or aryl-(C₁₋₆alkyl)₁₋₃-, wherein from 1-3 of         the CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain are optionally         independently replaced by O atoms, such that each of said O atom         is attached only to carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, with the         proviso that multiple O atoms that replace CH₂ groups within the         alkyl chain must be separated from each other by at least two         carbon atoms and from the di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or         hexaradical chain ends by at least one carbon atom; or R is the         backbone of a polymer or copolymer bearing carboxylic acid         and/or hydroxyl functional groups, where the average molecular         weight of the polymer or copolymer is between 500 to 5000 and         wherein w is an integer from about 6 to about 50;     -   a is independently selected from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and         10;     -   b is independently selected from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and         10;     -   each a and b is independently an integer from about 1 to about         10;     -   each m, n, y, and z is independently an integer from about 2 to         about 24; and     -   w is an integer from about 2 to about 6.

The groups represented by X, X¹, Y¹, and Y² are attached as shown. Their left hand sides are attached to the group shown in the corresponding formula to be on the left of the X, X¹, Y, or Y¹ group and on their right hand sides to the group shown in the corresponding formula to be on the right of the X, X¹, Y, or Y¹ group.

In some preferred embodiments of oligomers or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof of formula I or II, X¹ and Y¹ are derived from different hydroxyacid or lactone precursors.

In some preferred embodiments of oligomers or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof of formula I or II, X and Y are derived from different hydroxyacid or lactone precursors.

In other preferred embodiments of oligomers or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof of formulas I or II, R is a di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical derived from C₂₋₂₅ alkyl, aryl, preferably phenyl, or aryl-(C₁₋₆alkyl)₁₋₃-, preferably phenyl-(C₁₋₆ alkyl)₁₋₃-. Whether R is a di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical is determined by w. For example, when w is 2, R is a diradical; when w is 4, R is a tetraradical, and so forth. In certain preferred embodiments wherein R is derived from C₂₋₂₅ alkyl or aryl-(C₁₋₆ alkyl)₁₋₃—, 1-3 of the CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain are optionally independently replaced by O or S atoms, preferably by O atoms, such that each of said O or S atoms is attached only to carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, preferably with the proviso that the O or S atoms are separated from the di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical chain ends by at least one carbon atom and that multiple O or S atoms in the diradical chain must be separated from each other by at least two carbon atoms. Alternatively in some preferred embodiments, when R is alkyl, it is more preferably (CH₂), (CH₂)₃, CH(CH₂)₃, C(CH₂)₄, or C(CH₂CH₃)(CH₂)₃. In still other preferred embodiments, R is (CH₂)₃, and wherein the C-2 CH₂ group within the (CH₂)₃ chain is optionally replaced by an O atom. In yet other preferred embodiments, R is (CH₂)₂, (CH₂)₃, (CH₂)₄, (CH₂OCH₂), or (CH₂CH₂OCH₂CH₂). In still other preferred embodiments, R is (CH₂CHCH₂) when w is 3, or (C(CH₂)₄) when w is 4.

In certain other preferred embodiments, the present invention provides novel multi-armed oligomers of formulae I or II or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

R is a di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical derived from a C₂₋₁₂ alkyl, phenyl, and phenyl-(C₁₋₆ alkyl)₁₋₃-.

As used herein, the term “aryl-(C₁₋₆ alkyl)₁₋₃-” refers to a aryl ring, preferably a benzene ring, having 1 to 3 pendant alkyl groups, wherein the aryl-(C₁₋₆ alkyl)₁₋₃-, preferably phenyl-(C₁₋₆ alkyl)₁₋₃-moiety, is attached to the remainder of the structure in a given formula through its pendant alkyl group(s).

In certain preferred embodiments of the present invention, a is independently an integer from about 1 to about 5. Alternatively preferred, each a is independently an integer from about 1 to about 6, preferably from 1 to about 3, with from 1 to about 2 being even more preferred.

In other preferred embodiments of the present invention, b is independently an integer from about 1 to about 5. Alternatively preferred, each b is independently an integer from about 1 to about 6, preferably from 1 to about 3, with from 1 to about 2 being even more preferred.

In still other preferred embodiments of the present invention, w is the integer 2, 3, or 4.

The present invention also provides novel multi-armed oligomers of formulae I or II or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the moiety R and the “w” number of attached oxygen atoms (R—[O]_(w)) is O(CH₂)₂O, wherein w is 2; O(CH₂)₃O, wherein w is 2; CH(CH₂O)₃, wherein w is 3; C(CH₂O)₄, wherein w is 4; and C(CH₂CH₃)(CH₂O)₃, wherein w is 3.

In other preferred embodiments of the present invention, each X is independently —OC(═O)CH₂—, —OC(═O)CH(CH₃)—, —OC(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂—, or —OC(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂—; more preferably —OC(═O)CH₂— or —OC(═O)CH(CH₃)—.

In certain preferred embodiments of the present invention, each X¹ is independently —CH₂C(═O)O—, —CH(CH₃)C(═O)O—, —CH₂CH₂OCH₂C(═O)O—, or —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂C(═O)O—, more preferably —CH₂C(═O)O— or —CH(CH₃)C(═O)O—.

In some preferred embodiments of the present invention, each Y is independently —C(═O)CH₂O—, —C(═O)CH(CH₃)O—, —C(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂O—, or —C(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂O—; more preferably —C(═O)CH₂O— or —C(═O)CH(CH₃)O—.

In some other preferred embodiments of the present invention, each Y¹ is independently —OCH₂C(═O)—, —OCH(CH₃)C(═O)—, —OCH₂CH₂OCH₂C(═O)—, or —OCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂C(═O)—, more preferably —OCH₂C(═O)— or —OCH(CH₃)C(═O)—.

Examples of polymers or copolymers containing carboxylic acid group and/or hydroxyl functional groups include poly(acrylic acid), poly(acrylic acid-co-maleic acid), poly(ethylene glycol), branched poly(ethylene glycol), and poly(acrylic acid-graft-polyethylene glycol).

Examples of biologically active compounds include phenolic compounds including phenols, naphthols, indoles, acetophenones, benzophenones, coumarins, furanocoumarins, alkaloids, catechins, chromones, chalcones, flavonoids or bioflavonoids, isoflavones, drugs containing phenolic groups, and natural products containing phenolic groups.

Examples of biologically active dihydroxy compound that can be used to prepare a polymer of the present invention include Adrenalone, Alfuzosin, Alibendol, Amrubicin, Apomorphine, Bamethan, Benzquinamide, Bevantolol, Bifluranol, Bisacodyl, Brodimoprim, Bunazosin, Bupheniode, Carbidopa, Carbuterol, Cyclofenil, Cyclovalone, Daunorubicin, Dichlorophen, Dienestrol, Diethylstilbestrol, Dimestrol, Dithranol, Donepezil, Doxefazepam, Doxorubicin, Entacapone, Epinepheine, Epirubicin, Esomeprazole, Etamivan, Etamsylate, Etilefrine, Ezetimibe, Fenticlor, Fluorescein, Folescutol, Formoterol, Gefitinib, Hexestrol, Hexylresorcinol, Hydroxyethyl salicylate, Ifenprodil, Isoetarine, Isoxsuprine, Itopride. HCl, Khellin, Labetalol, Mitoxantrone, Morclofone, Moxaverine, Normolaxol, Omeprazole, Oxilofrine, Oxepertine, Phenacaine, Phenolphthalein, Prazosin, Tolcapone, Vesnarinone, and Vetradutine.

Examples of biologically active hydroxy/amino compounds that can be used to prepare a polymer of the present invention include Amisulpride, Amodiaquine, Amosulalol, Amoxicillin, Amsacrine, Azacyclonol, Bromopride, Carvedilol, Cefprozil, Cinitapride, Clebopride, Clenbuterol, Ethoxzolamide, Nadoxolol, D-Norpseudoephedrine, and paracetamol.

Examples of biologically active dicarboxylic acid compounds that can be used to prepare a polymer of the present invention include Adipiodone, Cromoglicic acid, Eprosartan, locarmic acid, Iodoxamic acid, loglycamic acid, lotroxic acid, Nedocromil.

Examples of biologically active hydroxy/carboxylic acid compounds that can be used to prepare a polymer of the present invention include Acemetacin, Bentiromide, Cinmetacin, Clometacin, Diflunisal, Fendosal, Indometacin, lophenoic acid, Naproxen, Repaglinide, Salazosulfapyridine, Salicylic Acid, Salsalate, and Sarpogrelate.

Examples of biologically active hydroxyl-acids useful in the present invention include but not limited to 4-hydroxycinnamic acid, Caffeic acid, Chlorogenic acid, Ferulic acid, Sinapinic acid, Vanillic acid, Acemetacin, Bentiromide, Cinmetacin, Clometacin, Diflunisal, Fendosal, Indometacin, lophenoic acid, Naproxen, Repaglinide, Salazosulfapyridine, Salicylic Acid, Salsalate, and Sarpogrelate.

Examples of biologically active amino/carboxylic acid compounds that can be used to prepare a polymer of the present invention include Aceclofenac, Acediasulfone, Alminoprofen, Amlexanox, Anileridine, Baccofen, Balsalazide sodium, Benzocaine, Bumetanide, Carprofen, Carzenide, Diclofenac, Flufenamic acid, Furosemide, lobenzamic acid, locetamic acid, and Mefenamic acid.

Some structures of Biologically Active Compounds bearing hydroxyl functional groups useful in present invention are shown below.

Examples of Biologically Active Compounds bearing carboxylic acid functional groups include but not limited to Acemetacin, Aceclofenac, Acediasulfone, Adipiodone, Alminoprofen, Amlexanox, Anileridine, Baccofen, Balsalazide sodium, Bentiromide, Benzocaine, Bumetanide, Carprofen, Carzenide, Cinmetacin, Clometacin, Cromoglicic acid, Diclofenac, Diflunisal, Eprosartan, Fendosal, Flufenamic acid, Furosemide, Indometacin, lobenzamic acid, locarmic acid, locetamic acid, Iodoxamic acid, loglycamic acid, lophenoic acid, lotroxic cid, Mefenamic acid, Naproxen, Nedocromil, Repaglinide, Salazosulfapyridine, Salicylic Acid, Salsalate, and Sarpogrelate.

Some structures of biologically active compounds bearing carboxyl functional groups useful in present invention are shown below.

Some of the biodegradable oligomers of the present invention can be prepared in two steps as shown in Scheme 1. In the first step, a multi-armed backbone for the oligomers is derived by the functionalization of multi-armed acid molecules (shown as a tetra-acid) with safe and biocompatible monomers or oligomeric segments containing repeat units derived from them to form multi-armed hydrolysable linker of formula A. Similarly, Biologically Active Compounds bearing hydroxyl functional groups can also be functionalized with safe and biocompatible monomers or oligomeric segments containing repeat units derived from them to form functionalized Biologically Active Compounds of Formula B. In the second step, multi-armed hydrolysable linker of formula A and functionalized Biologically Active Compounds of Formula B are reacted together in stoichiometric amounts to form multi-armed, biodegradable end functionalized therapeutic oligomers of Formula I of the present invention with controllable hydrolytic degradation profiles. The resulting multi-armed oligomers of the present invention can provide site specific delivery of bioactive compounds upon biodegradation by hydrolytic and/or enzymatic actions with controlled release of biologically active compounds as such with no change in native chemical structure.

In another embodiment of the present invention, oligomers of present invention can be prepared in two steps as shown in Scheme 2. In the first step, a multi-armed biodegradable backbone can be derived by the functionalization of multi-armed hydroxyl (polyol) molecules with safe and biocompatible monomers or oligomeric segments containing repeat units derived from them to form multi-armed hydrolysable linkers of formula C. Similarly, Biologically Active Compounds bearing carboxyl functional groups can also be functionalized with safe and biocompatible monomers or oligomeric segments containing repeat units derived from them to form functionalized Biologically Active Compounds of Formula D. In the second step, multi-armed hydrolysable linker of formula C and functionalized Biologically Active Compounds of Formula D are reacted together in stoichiometric amounts to form multi-armed, biodegradable end functionalized therapeutic oligomers of Formula II of the present invention with controllable hydrolytic degradation profile. The resulting multi-armed oligomers of the present invention can provide site specific delivery of bioactive compounds upon biodegradation by hydrolytic and/or enzymatic actions with controlled release of biologically active compounds as such with no change in native chemical structure.

Some examples of linear and multi-armed hydrolysable linker precursors of present invention are shown below: (e.g., —OC(═O)]_(w)—R, wherein each carboxylic acid proton (H) present in the di- or poly acid shown below is absent in the linker):

Examples of the number-average molecular weight of PEG (polyethylene glycol) include 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, to 1000.

Some examples of linear and multi-armed hydrolysable linkers of the present invention are shown below (e.g., —(X)_(a)—OC(═O)]_(w)—R, wherein each carboxylic acid proton (H) shown is absent in the linker):

For example, the first diacid derived linker in the list shown directly above has R as a three carbon diradical, wherein one of the CH₂ groups in the diradical is replaced by an oxygen atom, X is —OC(═O)CH₂—, a is the integer 1, and w is the integer 2.

Some examples of linear and multi-armed hydrolysable precursors and linkers of the present invention are shown below (e.g., —CH₂C(═O)—(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)R):

wherein Q is a bond (when part of an oligomer) or F, Cl, Br, or I (when part of a precursor).

For example, the first precursor in the list shown directly above has R as a two carbon diradical, wherein Y¹ is —OCH₂C(═O)—, b is the integer 2, and w is the integer 2.

Some examples of linear and multi-armed hydrolysable precursors and linkers of the present invention are shown below (e.g., —(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)R):

wherein Q is a bond (when part of an oligomer) or F, Cl, Br, or I as a replacement for the O atom (when part of a precursor).

For example, the first precursor in the list shown directly above has R as a two carbon diradical, wherein Y¹ is —OCH₂C(═O)—, b is the integer 2, and w is the integer 2.

“Alkyl” includes both branched and straight-chain saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon groups having the specified number of carbon atoms. C₁₋₆ alkyl, for example, includes C₁, C₂, C₃, C₄, C₅, and C₆ alkyl groups. Examples of alkyl include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, i-propyl, n-butyl, s-butyl, t-butyl, n-pentyl, s-pentyl, and n-hexyl.

“Aryl” refers to an optionally substituted, mono-, di-, tri-, or other multicyclic aromatic ring system having from about 5 to about 50 carbon atoms (and all combinations and subcombinations of ranges and specific numbers of carbon atoms therein), with from about 6 to about 10 carbons being preferred. Non-limiting examples include, for example, phenyl, naphthyl, anthracenyl, and phenanthrenyl.

The present invention also provides novel therapeutic methods for producing effects or treating diseases by administering to a patient in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of at least one polymer of the present invention. Examples of effects and diseases include an analgesic effect, cancer, an anti-inflammatory effect. an anti-bacterial effect, an anti-fungal effect, an immunosuppressive effect, an anti-thrombotic effect, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, skin cancer, brain tumor, an anti-infective effect, and pain.

The rate of hydrolysis of Biologically Active Compounds of formula B and D as shown in Scheme 1 and Scheme 2 respectively will depend upon a number of factors, including the functionalization species used and the number of repeat units of functionalization species present on the functionalized Biologically Active Compound (e.g., 1-6). Glycolic acid modified Biologically Active Compound should hydrolyze faster than dioxanone modifies ones, where as lactic acid and caprolactone modified Biologically Active Compound should take much longer to hydrolyze than glycolic acid and dioxanone modified Biologically Active Compound. Furthermore, it is expected that the rate of hydrolysis will increase with the increase in the value of a and b. Thus, the desired time range may be obtained by altering the number of repeat units and type of functionalization species used to functionalize the Biologically Active Compound.

The definitions and examples provided in this application are not intended to be limiting, unless specifically stated.

The starting material for the compounds of the present invention may be a phenolic compound or may be a precursor of a phenolic, such as a methoxyphenol, benzyloxyphenol or acetoxyphenol.

The present invention also provides a blend comprising one or more of the functionalization species with one or more species of phenolic compounds.

The compositions of the present invention may be suitable for administration via a route selected from oral, enteral, parenteral, topical, transdermal, ocular, vitreal, rectal, nasal, pulmonary, and vaginal.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable salts” refer to derivatives of the disclosed compounds wherein the parent compound is modified by making acid or base salts thereof. Examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts include, but are not limited to, mineral or organic acid salts of basic residues such as amines; alkali or organic salts of acidic residues such as carboxylic acids; and the like. The pharmaceutically acceptable salts include the conventional non-toxic salts or the quaternary ammonium salts of the parent compound formed, for example, from non-toxic inorganic or organic acids. For example, such conventional non-toxic salts include, but are not limited to, those derived from inorganic and organic acids selected from 1,2-ethanedisulfonic, 2-acetoxybenzoic, 2-hydroxyethanesulfonic, acetic, ascorbic, benzenesulfonic, benzoic, bicarbonic, carbonic, citric, edetic, ethane disulfonic, ethane sulfonic, fumaric, glucoheptonic, gluconic, glutamic, glycolic, glycollyarsanilic, hexylresorcinic, hydrabamic, hydrobromic, hydrochloric, hydroiodide, hydroxymaleic, hydroxynaphthoic, isethionic, lactic, lactobionic, lauryl sulfonic, maleic, malic, mandelic, methanesulfonic, napsylic, nitric, oxalic, pamoic, pantothenic, phenylacetic, phosphoric, polygalacturonic, propionic, salicyclic, stearic, subacetic, succinic, sulfamic, sulfanilic, sulfuric, tannic, tartaric, and toluenesulfonic.

The pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the present invention can be synthesized from the parent compound that contains a basic or acidic moiety by conventional chemical methods. Generally, such salts can be prepared by reacting the free acid or base forms of these compounds with a stoichiometric amount of the appropriate base or acid in water or in an organic solvent, or in a mixture of the two; generally, non-aqueous media like ether, ethyl acetate, ethanol, isopropanol, or acetonitrile are preferred. Lists of suitable salts are found in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 18th ed., Mack Publishing Company, Easton, Pa., 1990, p 1445, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

“Therapeutically effective amount” includes an amount of a compound of the present invention that is effective when administered alone or in combination to treat the desired indication.

One aspect of the present invention combines the phenolic compound with one or more of the selected group of compounds to form a functionalized phenolic compound with uses in medicine, as enhanced drugs, drug intermediates, cancer preventing agents, nutrition supplements, nutraceuticals, antioxidants, controlled release preparations, cosmetic applications, flavors, coatings, drug intermediates, solvents for drugs, new monomers for polymerization, and when polymerized, as polymers for biomedical applications, drugs, nutrition supplements, nutraceuticals, drug delivery, cosmetic applications, flavors, and coatings.

The array of functionalized phenolic compounds developed as an aspect of the invention, have a wide range of hydrolysis rates that are controllable. The specific moiety or combination of moieties used for functionalization yields a compound or mixture with specific hydrolysis ranges.

The new functionalized biologically active compounds have more controllable hydrolysis profiles, improved bioavailability, improved efficacy and enhanced functionality. The difunctional compounds polymerize into biodegradable polymers, for example, useful for applications, including biomedical applications, foodstuffs, cosmetics, medicaments, coatings and other uses readily apparent to one skilled in the art.

Bioactive Formulations

In other aspects of the present invention some functionalized biologically active compounds of the present invention are further manufactured into formulations suitable for oral, rectal, parenteral (for example, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intradermal, or intravenous), transdermal, vitreal or topical administration. The most suitable route in any given case will depend on the nature and severity of the condition being treated and on the nature of the particular active compound that is being used. The formulations of a pharmaceutical composition are typically admixed with one or more pharmaceutically or veterinarially acceptable carriers and/or excipients as are well known in the art.

Formulations suitable for oral administration may be presented in discrete units, such as capsules, cachets, lozenges, or tablets, each containing a predetermined amount of the active compound; as a powder or granules; as a solution or a suspension in an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid; or as an oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsion.

Compositions of the present invention suitable for parenteral administration conveniently comprise sterile aqueous preparations of the active compounds, where preparations are preferably isotonic with the blood of the intended recipient.

Formulations suitable for rectal administration are preferably presented as unit dose suppositories.

Formulations suitable for ocular or vitreal administration may be presented as bioabsorbable coatings for implantable medical devices, injectables, liquids, gels or suspensions.

Formulations or compositions suitable for topical administration to the skin preferably take the form of an ointment, cream, lotion, paste, gel, spray, aerosol, or oil. Examples of carriers that conventionally used include Vaseline, lanoline, polyethylene glycols, alcohols, and combination of two or more thereof.

Formulations suitable for transdermal administration may be presented as discrete patches adapted to remain in intimate contact with the epidermis of the recipient for a prolonged period of time.

The active compounds may be provided in the form of foodstuffs or nutrition supplements, such as being added to, admixed into, coated, combined or otherwise added to a foodstuff. The term foodstuff is used in its widest possible sense and includes liquid formulations such as drinks including dairy products, biodegradable chewing gums, and other foods, such as health bars, desserts, etc. Food formulations containing compounds of the invention can be readily prepared according to standard practices.

Compounds of the formula used as medicaments or pharmaceuticals are typically administered in a manner and amount as is conventionally practiced. See, for example, Goodman and Gilman, The Pharmaceutical Basis of Therapeutics, current edition.

Compounds of the present invention have potent antioxidant activity and increased acidity of their phenolic component, as well as the improved biodegradation provided by the functionalization, and thus find wide application in pharmaceutical and veterinary uses, in cosmetics such as more effective skin creams to prevent skin ageing, in sun screens, in foods, health drinks, nutritional supplements, shampoos, and the like.

Examples of functionalized biologically active compounds of the present invention are provided for some embodiments of the current invention. It can be extended to other species. This selection is not meant to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Other variations in the procedure may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Chloro-acetic acid 2-(2-chloro-acetoxy)-ethyl Ester

A solution ethylene glycol (100 grams, 1.611 moles), chloroacetic acid (385 grams, 4.031 moles) and paratoluene sulphonic acid (1 gram) in toluene (750 ml) in a 2 lit 4 neck round bottom flask equipped with a mechanical stirrer, Dean-stark apparatus was refluxed for 8 hours, cooled to room temperature. The toluene layer was washed with water (2×300 ml), 5% sodium bicarbonate solution (3×500 ml), water (2×300 ml), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled to get crude 1, which was purified by high vacuum distillation to get pure 1 (242 grams, 69.8%), which slowly crystallized to white crystals m.p: 44° C., ^(I)H NMR (CDCl₃): δ 4.16 (s, 2H, CH₂), 4.85 (s, 2H, CH₂).

Example 2 6-Bromo-hexanoic Acid 2-(6-bromo-hexanoyloxy)-ethyl Ester

A solution ethylene glycol (5 grams, 80.55 mmoles), 6-bromo hexanoic acid (47 grams, 240.96 mmoles) and paratoluene sulphonic acid (0.5 gram) in toluene (150 ml) in a 500 ml 4 neck round bottom flask equipped with a mechanical stirrer, Dean-stark apparatus was refluxed for 4 hours, cooled to room temperature. The toluene layer was washed with water (2×100 ml), 5% sodium bicarbonate solution (3×50 ml), water (2×100 ml), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled to get example 2 (30 grams, 91%) as a light yellow syrup. m.p: 44° C., ^(I)H NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.45 (m, 2H, CH₂), 1.59 (m, 2H, CH₂), 1.82 (m, 2H, CH₂), 2.26 (t, 2H, CH₂), 3.34 (t, 2H, CH₂), 4.18 (s, 2H, CH₂).

Example 3 Chloro-acetic Acid 3-(2-chloro-acetoxy)-2,2-bis-(2-chloro-acetoxymethyl)-propyl Ester

A solution pentaerythritol (25 grams, 183.62 mmoles), chloroacetic acid (105.2 grams, 1.10 moles) and paratoluene sulphonic acid (2 gram) in toluene (500 ml) in a 2 lit 4 neck round bottom flask equipped with a mechanical stirrer, Dean-stark apparatus was refluxed for 8 hours, cooled to room temperature. The toluene layer was washed with water (2×300 ml), 5% sodium bicarbonate solution (3×500 ml), water (2×300 ml), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled to get crude 3, which was purified by recrystallisation from chloroform:Hexane (1:7) to get pure 3 (77 grams, 94.8%), as a white powder. m.p: 94-96° C., IH NMR (CDCl₃): δ4.16 (s, 2H, CH₂), 4.28 (s, 2H, CH₂).

Example 4 Chloro-acetic Acid 2,2-bis-(2-chloro-acetoxymethyl)-butyl Ester

A solution Trimethylolpropane (100 grams, 745.82 mmoles), chloro acetic acid (422 grams, 4.465 moles) and Para toluene sulphonic acid (5 grams) in Toluene (500 ml) in a 2 liter 4 neck round bottom flask equipped with a mechanical stirrer, Dean-stark apparatus was refluxed for 8 hours, cooled to room temperature. The toluene layer was washed with water (2×300 ml), 5% sodium bicarbonate solution (3×500 ml), water (2×300 ml), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled to get the linker as light yellow syrup.

IH NMR (CDCl3) δ 0.9 (t, 3H, CH3), 1.6 (q, 2H, CH2), 4.07 (s, 6H, CH2×3), 4.15 (s, 6H, CH2×3)

Example 5 Aspirin Dimer

To a solution of Aspirin (25.13 grams, 139.49 mmoles), triethylamine (23.52 grams, 232.43 mmoles) in dry acetone (100 ml) was added chloro-acetic acid 2-(2-chloro-acetoxy)-ethyl ester 1 (10 grams, 46.50 mmoles) and stirred at room temperature for 20 hours. The solid triethylamine hydrochloride is filtered and to the filtrate, cold water (300 ml) was added. The precipitated polymer 5 was filtered, dried and recrystallised from chloroform:hexane (1:6) to get pure dimer 5 (16 grams, 68.4%) as white powder. m.p: 91-92.5° C., ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃): δ 2.30 (s, 3H, OAc), 4.40 (s, 2H, CH₂), 4.76 (s, 2H, CH₂), 7.10 (d, 1H, Ar), 7.32 (t, 1H, Ar), 7.58 (t, 1H, Ar), 8.10 (d, 1H, Ar).

Example 6 Aspirin Tetramer

To a solution of Aspirin (20.37 grams, 113.07 mmoles), triethylamine (18.29 grams, 180.74 mmoles) in dry acetone (100 ml) was added tetra chloro linker (10 grams, 22.62 mmoles), example 3 and stirred at room temperature for 20 hours. The solid triethylamine hydrochloride is filtered, acetone distilled off. Crude mass was dissolved in ethyl acetate, washed with 5% sodium bicarbonate solution, dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 6 was recrystallised from chloroform:hexane (1:6) to get pure 6 (10 grams, 44%) as white powder. m.p: 85-88° C., ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃): δ 2.31 (s, 3H, OAc), 4.16 (s, 2H, CH2), 4.78 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.12 (d, 1H, Ar), 7.32 (t, 1H, Ar), 7.60 (t, 1H, Ar), 8.08 (d, 1H, Ar).

Example 7 Aspirin Trimer

To a solution of Aspirin (124.5 grams, 91.09 mmoles), triethylamine (111.8 grams, 1.104 moles) in dry acetone (500 ml) at reflux temperature was added a solution of Tri chloro linker (50 grams, 137.89 mmoles), example 4, in acetone (100 ml) drop wise. Later further refluxed for 16 hours, cooled to room temperature, the solid triethylamine hydrochloride is filtered, acetone distilled off. Crude mass was dissolved in ethyl acetate, washed with 5% sodium bicarbonate solution, dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 7 was purified by column chromatography on silica gel using chloroform as eluant to get pure 7 (25 grams, 23.2%) as light yellow syrup: m.p: 85-88° C., ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃): δ 0.82 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.38 (q, 2H, CH₂), 2.32 (s, 9H, OAc), 4.10 (s, 6H, CH₂), 4.80 (s, 6H, CH₂), 7.14 (d, 3H, Ar), 7.34 (t, 3H, Ar), 7.60 (t, 3H, Ar), 8.10 (d, 3H, Ar).

Example 8 Naproxen Dimer

To a solution of Naproxen (56 grams, 243.20 mmoles), triethylamine (36.3 grams, 358.73 mmoles) in dry acetone (150 ml) was added dichloro linker (15 grams, 69.75 mmoles), example 1 and stirred at room temperature for 20 hours. The solid triethylamine hydrochloride is filtered, acetone distilled off. Crude mass was dissolved in ethyl acetate, washed with 5% sodium bicarbonate solution, dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 8 was purified by column chromatography on silica gel using benzene as eluant to get pure 8 (32 grams, 76.1%) as white powder. m.p: 69-71° C., ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.61 (d, 6H, CH₃), 3.90 (s, 6H, OCH3), 3.97 (q, 2H, CH), 4.26 (s, 4H, CH2), 4.58 (q, 4H, CH2), 7.10 (m, 4H, Ar), 7.41 (d, 2H, Ar), 7.70 (m, 6H, Ar).

Example 9 Naproxen Tetramer

To a solution of Naproxen (13 grams, 56.45 mmoles), triethylamine (9.14 grams, 90.32 mmoles) in dry acetone (50 ml) was added tetrachlorolinker (5 grams, 11.31 mmoles), example 3 and stirred at room temperature for 20 hours. The solid Triethylamine hydrochloride is filtered, acetone distilled off. Crude mass was dissolved in ethyl acetate, washed with 5% sodium bi carbonate solution, dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 9 was purified by recrystallisation from chloroform:hexane (1:6) to get pure 9 (3 grams, 21.8%) as white powder. m.p: 128-130° C., ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.58 (d, 12H, CH3), 3.84 (m, 8H, CH₂), 3.88 (s, 12H, OCH₃), 3.94 (q, 4H, CH), 4.52 (q, 8H, CH₂), 7.10 (m, 8H, Ar), 7.41 (d, 4H, Ar), 7.70 (m, 12H, Ar).

Example 10 Naproxen Trimer

To a solution of Naproxen (127 grams, 551.15 mmoles), triethylamine (83.5 grams, 825.18 mmoles) in dry acetone (500 ml) was added trichloro linker (50 grams, 137.89 mmoles), example 4 and stirred at room temperature for 20 hours. The solid triethylamine hydrochloride is filtered, acetone distilled off. Crude mass was dissolved in ethyl acetate, washed with 5% Sodium bi carbonate solution, dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 10 was purified by column chromatography on silica gel using benzene as eluant to get pure 10 (30 grams, 23%) as light green thick syrup. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃): δ 0.66 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.15 (q, 2H, CH₂), 1.61 (d, 9H, CH₃), 3.96 (m, 15H, OCH₃, CH₂), 4.56 (q, 6H, CH₂), 7.08 (m, 6H, Ar), 7.40 (d, 3H, Ar), 7.67 (m, 9H, Ar).

Example 11 Sulindac

Example 12 Exisulind

When ranges are used herein for physical properties, such as molecular weight, or chemical properties, such as chemical formulae, all combinations and subcombinations of ranges and specific embodiments therein are intended to be included.

The disclosures of each patent, patent application and publication cited or described in this document are hereby incorporated herein by reference, in their entireties.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous changes and modifications can be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention and that such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is, therefore, intended that the appended claims cover all such equivalent variations as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

EMBODIMENT 1

An oligomer or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof of formula I or II:

[R¹—O—(Y)_(b)—C(═O)CH₂—(X)_(a)—OC(═O)]_(w)—R  I

[R²—C(═O)O—(X¹)_(a)—CH₂C(═O)—(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)—R  II

wherein:

-   -   R¹—O— is a biologically active compound residue;     -   R²—C(═O)O— is a biologically active compound residue;     -   X is selected from: —OC(═O)CH₂— (inverse glycolic acid moiety),         —OC(═O)CH(CH₃)— (inverse lactic acid moiety), —OC(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂—         (inverse dioxanone acid moiety), —OC(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂—         (inverse caprolactone acid moiety), —OC(═O)(CH₂)_(y)—, or         —OC(═O)CH₂(OCH₂CH₂)_(z)—.     -   X¹ is selected from: —CH₂C(═O)O— (glycolic acid moiety),         —CH(CH₃)C(═O)O— (lactic acid moiety), —CH₂CH₂OCH₂C(═O)O—         (dioxanone acid moiety), —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂C(═O)O— (caprolactone         acid moiety), —(CH₂)_(y)C(═O)O—, or —(CH₂CH₂O)_(z)CH₂C(═O)O—;     -   Y is selected from: —C(═O)CH₂O— (glycolic ester moiety),         —C(═O)CH(CH₃)O— (lactic ester moiety), —C(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂O—         (dioxanone ester moiety), —C(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂O— (caprolactone         ester moiety), —C(═O)(CH₂)_(m)O—, or —C(═O)CH₂—O—(CH₂CH₂O)_(n)—;     -   Y¹ is selected from: —OCH₂C(═O)— (inverse glycolic ester         moiety), —OCH(CH₃)C(═O)— (inverse lactic ester moiety),         —OCH₂CH₂OCH₂C(═O)— (inverse dioxanone ester moiety),         —OCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂C(═O)— (inverse caprolactone ester moiety),         —O(CH₂)_(m)C(═O)—, or —O(CH₂CH₂O)_(n)OCH₂C(═O)—;

R is a di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical derived from C₂₋₂₅ alkyl, aryl, or aryl-(C₁₋₆alkyl)₁₋₃-, wherein from 1-3 of the CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain are optionally independently replaced by O atoms, such that each of said O atom is attached only to carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, with the proviso that multiple O atoms that replace CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain must be separated from each other by at least two carbon atoms and from the di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical chain ends by at least one carbon atom; or R is the backbone of a polymer or copolymer bearing carboxylic acid and/or hydroxyl functional groups, where the average molecular weight of the polymer or copolymer is between 500 to 5000 and wherein w is an integer from about 6 to about 50;

-   -   each a and b is independently an integer from about 1 to about         10;     -   each m, n, y, and z is independently an integer from about 2 to         about 24; and     -   w is an integer from about 2 to about 6.

EMBODIMENT 2

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, wherein:

-   -   R is a di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical derived from         C₂₋₁₂alkyl, phenyl, or phenyl-(C₁₋₆alkyl)₁₋₃-, wherein from 1-3         of the CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain are optionally         independently replaced by O atoms, such that each of said O atom         is attached only to carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, with the         proviso that multiple O atoms that replace CH₂ groups within the         alkyl chain must be separated from each other by at least two         carbon atoms and from the di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or         hexaradical chain ends by at least one carbon atom;     -   each a and b is independently an integer from about 1 to about         5; and     -   w is an integer from about 2 to about 4.

EMBODIMENT 3

An oligomer of Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein:

-   -   R—[O]_(w) is O(CH₂)₂O, O(CH₂)₃O, CH(CH₂O)₃, C(CH₂O)₄, or         C(CH₂CH₃)(CH₂OH)₃.

EMBODIMENT 4

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, or 3, wherein:

-   -   each X is independently —OC(═O)CH₂—, —OC(═O)CH(CH₃)—,         —OC(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂—, or —OC(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂—.     -   each X¹ is independently —CH₂COO—; —CH(CH₃)COO—;         —CH₂CH₂OCH₂COO—; or —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO—.     -   each Y is independently —COCH₂O—; —COCH(CH₃)O—; —COCH₂OCH₂CH₂O—;         or —COCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂O—. and     -   each Y¹ is independently —OCH₂CO—; —OCH(CH₃)CO—;         —OCH₂CH₂OCH₂CO—; or —OCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CO—.

EMBODIMENT 5

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein:

-   -   X is independently —OCOCH₂— and —OCOCH(CH₃)—;     -   each X¹ is independently —CH₂COO— and —CH(CH₃)COO—;     -   each Y is independently —COCH₂O— and —COCH(CH₃)O—; and,     -   each Y¹ is independently —OCH₂CO— and —OCH(CH₃)CO—.

EMBODIMENT 6

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein R¹—O— is selected from acenocoumarol, acetarsol, actinoquinol, adrenalone, alibendol, amodiaquine, anethole, balsalazide, bamethan, benserazide, bentiromide, benzarone, benzquinamide, bevantolol, bifluranol, buclosamide, bupheniode, chlorotrianisene, chloroxylenol, cianidanol, cinepazide, cinitapride, cinepazide, cinmetacin, clebopride, clemastine, clioquinol, cyclovalone, cynarine, denopamine, dextroythyroxine, diacerein, dichlorophen, dienestrol, diethylstilbestrol, diflunisal, diiodohydroxyquinoline, dilazep, dilevalol, dimestrol, dimoxyline, diosmin, dithranol, dobutamine, donepezil, dopamine, dopexamine, doxazosin, entacapone, epanolol, epimestrol, epinephrine, estradiol valerate, estriol, estriol succinate, estrone, etamivan, etamsylate, ethaverine, ethoxzolamide, ethyl biscoum-acetate, etilefrine, etiroxate, exalamide, exifone, fendosal, fenoldopam mesilate, fenoterol, fenoxedil, fenticlor, flopropione, floredil, fluorescein, folescutol, formo-terol, gallopamil, gentistic acid, glaziovine, glibenclamide, glucametacin, guajacol, halquinol, hexachlorophene, hexestrol, hexobendine, hexoprenaline, hexylresorcinol, hydroxyethyl salicylate, hydroxystilbamidine isethionate, hymecromone, ifenprodil, indomethacin, ipriflavone, isoetarine, isoprenaline, isoxsuprine, itopride hydrochlor-ide, ketobemidone, khellin, labetalol, lactylphenetidin, levodopa. levomepromazine, levorphanol, levothyroxine, mebeverine, medrylamine, mefexamide, mepacrine, mesalazine, mestranol, metaraminol, methocarbamol, methoxamine, methoxsalen, methyldopa, midodrine, mitoxantrone, morclofone, nabumetone, naproxen, nitroxo-line, norfenefrine, normolaxol, octopamine, omeprazole, orciprenaline, oxilofrine, oxitriptan, oxyfedrine, oxypertine, oxyphenbutazone, oxyphenisatin acetate, oxyquin-oline, papaverine, paracetanol, parethoxycaine, phenacaine, phenacetin, phenazocine, phenolphthalein, phenprocoumon, phentolamine, phloedrine, picotamide, pimoben-dan, prenalterol, primaquine, progabide, propanidid, protokylol, proxymetacaine, raloxifene hydrochloride, repaglinide, reproterol, rimiterol, ritodrine, salacetamide, salazosulfapyridine, salbutamol, salicylamide, salicylic acid, salmeterol, salsalate, sildenafil, silibinin, sulmetozin, tamsulosin, terazosin, terbutaline, tetroxoprim, theo-drenaline, tioclomarol, tioxolone, α-tocopherol (vitamin E), tofisopam, tolcapone, tolterodine, tranilast, tretoquinol, triclosan, trimazosin, trimetazidine, trimethobenz-amide, trimethoprim, trimetozine, trimetrexate glucuronate, troxipide, verapamil, vesnarinone, vetrabutine, viloxazine, warfarin, and xamoterol.

EMBODIMENT 7

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein R¹—O— is:

EMBODIMENT 8

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein R²—C(═O)O— is selected from Acemetacin, Aceclofenac, Acediasulfone, Adipiodone, Alminoprofen, Amlexanox, Anileridine, Baccofen, Balsalazide sodium, Bentiromide, Benzocaine, Bumetanide, Carprofen, Carzenide, Cinmetacin, Clometacin, Cromoglicic acid, Diclofenac, Diflunisal, Eprosartan, Fendosal, Flufenamic acid, Furosemide, Indometacin, lobenzamic acid, locarmic acid, locetamic acid, Iodoxamic acid, loglycamic acid, lophenoic acid, lotroxic cid, Mefenamic acid, Naproxen, Nedocromil, Repaglinide, Salazosulfapyridine, Salicylic Acid, Salsalate, and Sarpogrelate.

EMBODIMENT 9

An oligomer of claim Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein R²—C(═O)O— is:

EMBODIMENT 10

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein R¹—O— is selected from capsaicin, coumarins, furanocoumarins, alkaloids, catechins, chromones, chalcones, flavonoids or bioflavonoids, isoflavones, resveratrol, and sinapic acid.

EMBODIMENT 11

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein R¹—O— is selected from 4-hydroxycinnamic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, capsaicin, 4-hydroxycoumarin, psoralen, bergapten, bergaptol, xanthotoxin, isopimpinellin.

EMBODIMENT 12

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, or 11, wherein —OC(═O)]_(w)—R is:

wherein each carboxylic acid proton (H) present in the di- or poly-acid shown is absent in the moiety —OC(═O)]_(w)—R.

EMBODIMENT 13

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, or 9, wherein —(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)R is:

wherein each Q is a bond.

EMBODIMENT 14

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, or 12, wherein —(X)_(a)—OC(═O)]_(w)—R is:

wherein each carboxylic acid proton (H) present in the di-acid shown is absent in the moiety. —(X)_(a)—OC(═O)]_(w)—R.

EMBODIMENT 15

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, or 13, wherein —CH₂C(═O)—(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)R) is:

wherein Q is a bond.

EMBODIMENT 16

An oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, or 14, wherein R¹—O— is selected from chalcones, hydroxy-benzoic acid, dihydroxy-benzoic acid, indoles, acetophenones, benzophenones, catechins, flavonoids, coumarins, hydroquinone, naproxen, acetaminophen, and acetylsalicylic acid.

EMBODIMENT 17

A cosmetic composition, comprising at least one compound of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16, and a cosmetic ingredient.

EMBODIMENT 18

A pharmaceutical composition, comprising at least one compound of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16, and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.

EMBODIMENT 19

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 18, wherein the composition is suitable for administration via a route selected from oral, enteral, parenteral, topical, transdermal, ocular, vitreal, rectal, nasal, pulmonary, and vaginal.

EMBODIMENT 20

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 18, wherein the phenolic residue in the compound of formula I was derived from a cancer preventing phenolic.

EMBODIMENT 21

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 20, further comprising: an anti-cancer agent.

EMBODIMENT 22

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 18, wherein the phenolic residue of formula I or II is derived from a phenolic compound with antimicrobial properties.

EMBODIMENT 23

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 22, further comprising: an antimicrobial agent.

EMBODIMENT 24

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 18, wherein the phenolic residue in the compound of formula I was derived from a phenolic with anti-inflammatory properties.

EMBODIMENT 25

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 24, further comprising: anti-inflammatory agent.

EMBODIMENT 26

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 18, wherein the phenolic residue in the compound of formula I was derived from a phenolic with pain-reducing properties.

EMBODIMENT 27

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 26, further comprising: a pain reducing agent.

EMBODIMENT 28

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 18, wherein the phenolic residue in the compound of formula I was derived from a phenolic with antioxidant properties.

EMBODIMENT 29

A pharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 28, further comprising: an antioxidant agent.

EMBODIMENT 30

A suture coating, comprising: at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 31

An antimicrobial agent, comprising: at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 32

A therapeutic method for treating a disease in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 33

A therapeutic method for producing an analgesic effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 34

A therapeutic method for treating cancer in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 35

A therapeutic method for producing an anti-inflammatory effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 36

A therapeutic method for producing an anti-bacterial effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 37

A therapeutic method for producing an anti-fungal effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 38

A therapeutic method for producing an immunosuppressive effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 39

A therapeutic method for producing an anti-thrombotic effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 40

A therapeutic method for treating psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, skin cancer, or a brain tumor in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 41

A therapeutic method for producing an anti-infective effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16.

EMBODIMENT 42

A therapeutic method for treating pain in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16. 

1. An oligomer or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof of formula I or II: [R¹—O—(Y)_(b)—C(O)CH₂—(X)_(a)—OC(O)]_(w)—R  I [R²—C(O)O—(X¹)_(a)—CH₂C(O)—(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)—R  II wherein: R¹—O— is a biologically active compound residue; R²—C(═O)O— is a biologically active compound residue; X is selected from: —OC(═O)CH₂— (inverse glycolic acid moiety), —OC(═O)CH(CH₃)— (inverse lactic acid moiety), —OC(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂— (inverse dioxanone acid moiety), —OC(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂— (inverse caprolactone acid moiety), —OC(═O)(CH₂)_(y)—, or —OC(═O)CH₂(OCH₂CH₂)_(z)—. X¹ is selected from: —CH₂C(═O)O— (glycolic acid moiety), —CH(CH₃)C(═O)O— (lactic acid moiety), —CH₂CH₂OCH₂C(═O)O— (dioxanone acid moiety), —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂C(═O)O— (caprolactone acid moiety), —(CH₂)_(y)C(═O)O—, or —(CH₂CH₂O)_(n)CH₂C(═O)O—; Y is selected from: —C(═O)CH₂O— (glycolic ester moiety), —C(═O)CH(CH₃)O— (lactic ester moiety), —C(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂O— (dioxanone ester moiety), —C(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂O— (caprolactone ester moiety), —C(═O)(CH₂)_(m)O—, or —C(═O)CH₂—O—(CH₂CH₂O)_(n)—; Y¹ is selected from: —OCH₂C(═O)— (inverse glycolic ester moiety), —OCH(CH₃)C(═O)— (inverse lactic ester moiety), —OCH₂CH₂OCH₂C(═O)— (inverse dioxanone ester moiety), —OCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂C(═O)— (inverse caprolactone ester moiety), —O(CH₂)_(m)C(═O)—, or —O(CH₂CH₂O)_(n)OCH₂C(═O)—; R is a di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical derived from C₂₋₂₅ alkyl, aryl, or aryl-(C₁₋₆alkyl)₁₋₃-, wherein from 1-3 of the CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain are optionally independently replaced by O atoms, such that each of said O atom is attached only to carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, with the proviso that multiple O atoms that replace CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain must be separated from each other by at least two carbon atoms and from the di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical chain ends by at least one carbon atom; or R is the backbone of a polymer or copolymer bearing carboxylic acid and/or hydroxyl functional groups, where the average molecular weight of the polymer or copolymer is between 500 to 5000 and wherein w is an integer from about 6 to about 50; each a and b is independently an integer from about 1 to about 10; each m, n, y, and z is independently an integer from about 2 to about 24; and w is an integer from about 2 to about
 6. 2. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein: R is a di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical derived from C₂₋₁₂alkyl, phenyl, or phenyl-(C₁₋₆alkyl)₁₋₃-, wherein from 1-3 of the CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain are optionally independently replaced by O atoms, such that each of said O atom is attached only to carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, with the proviso that multiple O atoms that replace CH₂ groups within the alkyl chain must be separated from each other by at least two carbon atoms and from the di-, tri, tetra-, penta- or hexaradical chain ends by at least one carbon atom; each a and b is independently an integer from about 1 to about 5; and w is an integer from about 2 to about
 4. 3. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein: R—[O]_(w) is O(CH₂)₂O, O(CH₂)₃O, CH(CH₂O)₃, C(CH₂O)₄, or C(CH₂CH₃)(CH₂OH)₃.
 4. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein: each X is independently —OC(═O)CH₂—, —OC(═O)CH(CH₃)—, —OC(═O)CH₂OCH₂CH₂—, or —OC(═O)CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂—. each X¹ is independently —CH₂COO—; —CH(CH₃)COO—; —CH₂CH₂OCH₂COO—; or —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO—. each Y is independently —COCH₂O—; —COCH(CH₃)O—; —COCH₂OCH₂CH₂O—; or —COCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂O—. and each Y¹ is independently —OCH₂CO—; —OCH(CH₃)CO—; —OCH₂CH₂OCH₂CO—; or —OCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CO—.
 5. An oligomer of claim 4, wherein: X is independently —OCOCH₂— and —OCOCH(CH₃)—; each X¹ is independently —CH₂COO— and —CH(CH₃)COO—; each Y is independently —COCH₂O— and —COCH(CH₃)O—; and, each Y¹ is independently —OCH₂CO— and —OCH(CH₃)CO—.
 6. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein R¹—O— is selected from acenocoumarol, acetarsol, actinoquinol, adrenalone, alibendol, amodiaquine, anethole, balsalazide, bamethan, benserazide, bentiromide, benzarone, benzquinamide, bevantolol, bifluranol, buclosamide, bupheniode, chlorotrianisene, chloroxylenol, cianidanol, cinepazide, cinitapride, cinepazide, cinmetacin, clebopride, clemastine, clioquinol, cyclovalone, cynarine, denopamine, dextroythyroxine, diacerein, dichlorophen, dienestrol, diethylstilbestrol, diflunisal, diiodohydroxyquinoline, dilazep, dilevalol, dimestrol, dimoxyline, diosmin, dithranol, dobutamine, donepezil, dopamine, dopexamine, doxazosin, entacapone, epanolol, epimestrol, epinephrine, estradiol valerate, estriol, estriol succinate, estrone, etamivan, etamsylate, ethaverine, ethoxzolamide, ethyl biscoum-acetate, etilefrine, etiroxate, exalamide, exifone, fendosal, fenoldopam mesilate, fenoterol, fenoxedil, fenticlor, flopropione, floredil, fluorescein, folescutol, formo-terol, gallopamil, gentistic acid, glaziovine, glibenclamide, glucametacin, guajacol, halquinol, hexachlorophene, hexestrol, hexobendine, hexoprenaline, hexylresorcinol, hydroxyethyl salicylate, hydroxystilbamidine isethionate, hymecromone, ifenprodil, indomethacin, ipriflavone, isoetarine, isoprenaline, isoxsuprine, itopride hydrochlor-ide, ketobemidone, khellin, labetalol, lactylphenetidin, levodopa. levomepromazine, levorphanol, levothyroxine, mebeverine, medrylamine, mefexamide, mepacrine, mesalazine, mestranol, metaraminol, methocarbamol, methoxamine, methoxsalen, methyldopa, midodrine, mitoxantrone, morclofone, nabumetone, naproxen, nitroxo-line, norfenefrine, normolaxol, octopamine, omeprazole, orciprenaline, oxilofrine, oxitriptan, oxyfedrine, oxypertine, oxyphenbutazone, oxyphenisatin acetate, oxyquin-oline, papaverine, paracetanol, parethoxycaine, phenacaine, phenacetin, phenazocine, phenolphthalein, phenprocoumon, phentolamine, phloedrine, picotamide, pimoben-dan, prenalterol, primaquine, progabide, propanidid, protokylol, proxymetacaine, raloxifene hydrochloride, repaglinide, reproterol, rimiterol, ritodrine, salacetamide, salazosulfapyridine, salbutamol, salicylamide, salicylic acid, salmeterol, salsalate, sildenafil, silibinin, sulmetozin, tamsulosin, terazosin, terbutaline, tetroxoprim, theo-drenaline, tioclomarol, tioxolone, α-tocopherol (vitamin E), tofisopam, tolcapone, tolterodine, tranilast, tretoquinol, triclosan, trimazosin, trimetazidine, trimethobenz-amide, trimethoprim, trimetozine, trimetrexate glucuronate, troxipide, verapamil, vesnarinone, vetrabutine, viloxazine, warfarin, and xamoterol.
 7. An oligomer of claim 6, wherein R¹—O— is:


8. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein R²—C(═O)O— is selected from Acemetacin, Aceclofenac, Acediasulfone, Adipiodone, Alminoprofen, Amlexanox, Anileridine, Baccofen, Balsalazide sodium, Bentiromide, Benzocaine, Bumetanide, Carprofen, Carzenide, Cinmetacin, Clometacin, Cromoglicic acid, Diclofenac, Diflunisal, Eprosartan, Fendosal, Flufenamic acid, Furosemide, Indometacin, lobenzamic acid, locarmic acid, locetamic acid, Iodoxamic acid, loglycamic acid, lophenoic acid, lotroxic cid, Mefenamic acid, Naproxen, Nedocromil, Repaglinide, Salazosulfapyridine, Salicylic Acid, Salsalate, and Sarpogrelate.
 9. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein R²—C(═O)O— is:


10. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein R¹—O— is selected from capsaicin, coumarins, furanocoumarins, alkaloids, catechins, chromones, chalcones, flavonoids or bioflavonoids, isoflavones, resveratrol, and sinapic acid.
 11. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein R¹—O— is selected from 4-hydroxycinnamic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, capsaicin, 4-hydroxycoumarin, psoralen, bergapten, bergaptol, xanthotoxin, isopimpinellin.
 12. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein —OC(═O)]_(w)—R is:

wherein each carboxylic acid proton (H) present in the di- or poly-acid shown is absent in the moiety —OC(═O)]_(w)—R.
 13. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein —(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)R is:

wherein each Q is a bond.
 14. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein —(X)_(a)—OC(═O)]_(w)—R is:

wherein each carboxylic acid proton (H) present in the di-acid shown is absent in the moiety. —(X)_(a)—OC(═O)]_(w)—R.
 15. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein —CH₂C(═O)—(Y¹)_(b)—O]_(w)R) is:

wherein Q is a bond.
 16. An oligomer of claim 1, wherein R¹—O— is selected from chalcones, hydroxy-benzoic acid, dihydroxy-benzoic acid, indoles, acetophenones, benzophenones, catechins, flavonoids, coumarins, hydroquinone, naproxen, acetaminophen, and acetylsalicylic acid.
 17. A cosmetic composition, comprising at least one compound of claim 1 and a cosmetic ingredient.
 18. A pharmaceutical composition, comprising at least one compound of claim 1 and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
 19. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 18, wherein the composition is suitable for administration via a route selected from oral, enteral, parenteral, topical, transdermal, ocular, vitreal, rectal, nasal, pulmonary, and vaginal.
 20. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 18, wherein the phenolic residue in the compound of formula I was derived from a cancer preventing phenolic.
 21. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 20, further comprising: an anti-cancer agent.
 22. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 18, wherein the phenolic residue of formula I or II is derived from a phenolic compound with antimicrobial properties.
 23. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 22, further comprising: an antimicrobial agent.
 24. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 18, wherein the phenolic residue in the compound of formula I was derived from a phenolic with anti-inflammatory properties.
 25. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 24, further comprising: anti-inflammatory agent.
 26. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 18, wherein the phenolic residue in the compound of formula I was derived from a phenolic with pain-reducing properties.
 27. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 26, further comprising: a pain reducing agent.
 28. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 18, wherein the phenolic residue in the compound of formula I was derived from a phenolic with antioxidant properties.
 29. A pharmaceutical composition of claim 28, further comprising: an antioxidant agent.
 30. A suture coating, comprising: at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 31. An antimicrobial agent, comprising: at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 32. A therapeutic method for treating a disease in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 33. A therapeutic method for producing an analgesic effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 34. A therapeutic method for treating cancer in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 35. A therapeutic method for producing an anti-inflammatory effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 36. A therapeutic method for producing an anti-bacterial effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 37. A therapeutic method for producing an anti-fungal effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 38. A therapeutic method for producing an immunosuppressive effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 39. A therapeutic method for producing an anti-thrombotic effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 40. A therapeutic method for treating psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, skin cancer, or a brain tumor in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 41. A therapeutic method for producing an anti-infective effect in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 43. A therapeutic method for treating pain in a patient, comprising: administering to a patient in need of such therapy, an effective amount of at least one oligomer of claim
 1. 